Best Beaches Near Kuala Lumpur

RESHMA DEWDA

UPDATED Jan 30, 2018

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When you're in the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur, mesmerized with its glitzy concrete and bustling ambiance, it’s easy to forget that you are in a country that boasts of some of the best scuba diving and sandy patches on this side of the world. If you’re looking to escape the maddening chaos of the city, your best bet would be to escape to the beaches near Kuala Lumpur.

Some of the best islands in Malaysia are easily accessible from this metropolis. The best way to experience the charm of the country is to experience the raw, unadulterated beauty of its shores. These are the best beaches near Kuala Lumpur:

1. Port Dickson

Situated along the North-South expressway, Port Dickson is only an hour away from Kuala Lumpur but you’re sure to feel that it’s a whole new world altogether. There are a few beaches here that are like a breath of fresh air for those looking to escape the humdrum of the fast track life. There are a variety of water sports facilities available on these beaches. Some of the popular beaches are:

Bagan Pinang - A quiet stretch of sandy coastline, famous for snorkeling, swimming and kite flying.

2. Morib Beach, Banting

Located about 64 kilometers from Kuala Lumpur, Morib Beach is a short sandy patch that is a respite from the pollution of the city. An ideal day trip as this is a popular beach closer to Kuala Lumpur and offers much-needed peace and calm to visitors. Kids can enjoy rollerblading and kite flying here and there is also a great seafood restaurant on the beach.

3. Bagan Lalang, Sepang

Just about a one hour drive from Kuala Lumpur, Bagan Lalang lies in the Sepang district. This best beach is suitable for swimming and also makes for a great meditative break. There is some fresh and delicious seafood on offer in the restaurants surrounding the beach. An extension of Morib beach, Bagan Lalang is a quiet haven that makes for a good short getaway for family and friends.

4. Batu Ferringhi, Penang Island

Think endless stretches of powdery white sand and a vibrant restaurant scene that is always bustling with activity. Batu Feringghi is Penang’s most developed beach but that has not taken away its charm as one of the most exciting beaches near Kuala Lumpur. If you’re someone who loves a beach with its lively shacks and markets, this is the ideal place for you. After you’re done with chilling on the sand, head to one of the lovely night markets or sample some yummy dishes in one of the restaurants. There is also some adrenaline pumping water sports activities at this beach.

5. Pulau Jerejak

Its quite rare to find an untouched rainforest thriving next to a pristine beach. Pulau Jerejak is one such island located just off the coast of Penang. Located at a drive of four hours from Kuala Lumpur, Pulau Jerejak is a serene retreat that is popular as an ecotourism destination and one of the best islands in Malaysia. From jungle trekking to kayaking, there is a host of activities to indulge in here. The island is accessible via a free ferry from Penang.

Famous Beach Resort on Pulau Jerejak: Jerejak Rainforest Resort

6. Pantai Kerachut, Penang Island

Another best beach near the Penang island, Pantai Kerachut is the remotest beach here. Absolutely stunning, this beach is a nestling ground for endangered species like the Olive Ridley turtles, Hawksbill turtles among other interesting species like kingfishers, mousedeers, and crabs. Besides this, Pantai Kerachut also has the distinction of being one of the only four meromictic lakes in Asia which have both sea water and fresh water that are known not to intermix. It is accessible by a twenty-minute boat ride from Batu Ferringhi.

7. Pangkor Island

True to its name, Pangkor is a beautiful island. It boasts of a number of beaches that can be explored easily on a motorbike. Pantai Pasir Bogak is a popular beach on the island. Pangkor Laut is one of the loveliest beach resorts near Kuala Lumpur. Nipah beach boasts of clear waters that are absolutely heavenly to swim in. Do take the effort to reach the remote Segadas beach that is one of the most heavenly beaches on the island. Visitors can choose to snorkel at Pulau Giam. Pangkor lies at a distance of four hours from Kuala Lumpur.

8. Langkawi Island

That Langkawi is the ideal escape for beach lovers is something anyone in Malaysia will tell you. But out of the many beaches that this island boasts, we’re here to show you which one is the best for the beach bum in you. You will love Tanjung Rhu for its endless stretch of white sand and azure waters. Teluk Yu is a great beach for families because of its shaded seating areas and swimming possibilities. Pantai Kok is another great beach that offers stunning bay views and crystal clear waters. Although Langkawi is not ideal for day trips from Kuala Lumpur because of its vast distance from the city, it is easily accessible by flights and highly recommended for its beaches. If you are a newly-wed plan for a honeymoon in Langakawi which is an ideal romantic place in Malaysia.

9. Tioman Island

Unarguably one of the best islands in the world, Tioman is still sparsely populated and densely forested. A scuba diving paradise, Tioman boasts of white coral reefs and beautiful blue waters. The eastern coast of Tioman is where most of its beaches are located. The west coast has a long beach stretching endlessly from Juara village. Some of the noteworthy beaches here are Paya, Tekek, Air Batang, Genting, Mukut, Salang, and Nipah. Accessed via a ferry from Mersing, Tioman is about 370 kilometers away from Kuala Lumpur. Tioman is where you will find some of the best beaches near Kuala Lumpur.

Beach Resorts To Stay in: Berjaya Tioman Resort, Bagus Place Retreat

10. Cherating - a Resort Town

Cherating is known for its laidback vibe and wide stretch of sand. Slowly turning into a backpacker paradise, Cherating is an ideal place for those who love to spend hours gazing at the unending horizon. Visitors can indulge in a number of water activities like surfing, swimming etc. There is a turtle sanctuary nearby that is also worth a visit. Cherating lies at a distance of 278 kilometers from Kuala Lumpur.

11. Teluk Batik, Lumut

The Teluk Batik beach is located at a distance of 6.5 kilometers from the town of Lumut. The shimmery golden sands of Teluk Batik attract a number of beach lovers throughout the year. A great family beach, the waters are ideal for swimming during low tide. Full of organized amenities after a recent restoration, visitors can find clean restrooms and shower areas at the beach. Located at a distance of 3 and a half hours from Kuala Lumpur, Teluk Batik makes for a good escape from the city.

12. Pantai Puteri, Malacca

Puteri Beach is located in Tanjung Kling in the Malacca province. It is about 2.5 kilometers long and is a quiet and clean beach that is ideal for a picnic or some R&R. Initially known as Kundor beach, Pantai Puteri is quite popular with locals on weekends and holidays. There are a number of beach resorts on this beach and also some interesting eateries. Visitor facilities also include public toilets, prayer rooms. One can spot fishermen on the waters and there are also water sports activities on the beach. Pantai Puteri is at a distance of 135 kilometers from Kuala Lumpur.

13. Redang Island

Redang is a tropical paradise blessed with sun-kissed beaches and gorgeous azure waters. An absolute must visit for any beach bum, Redang boasts of many beaches that are perfect for rejuvenation. To get to Redang from Kuala Lumpur, visitors can either take direct flights or overnight buses that take seven to eight hours to reach Redang. The best beaches in Redang are Sekinchan, Coral Beach, Pasir Panjang beach, Pasir Kalong and Marine Park beach. There are some excellent coral reefs to discover for those who enjoy diving and snorkeling. A number of beaches are also privately owned by the beach resorts.

14. Pantai Cahaya Bulan, Kota Bahru

Pantai Cahaya Bulan or Moonlight beach is one of the best beaches near Kuala Lumpur. It lies near the state capital Kota Bahru which is 445 kilometers away from Kuala Lumpur, easily accessible via flights. By bus, it is roughly nine hours away. Pantai Cahaya Bulan boasts of clear waters and beautiful powdery sand. Visitors can enjoy some fresh seafood on the beach. A great spot for family outings and picnics, this beach has water sports activities and horse riding facilities too.

15. Rawa Island

Rawa Island is this idyllic beach that lies off the east coast of Malaysia, accessible only by boat from Mersing. At a distance of four and a half hours away or 367 kilometers from Kuala Lumpur, Rawa Island is a whole world apart. Surrounded by lush vegetation and boasting of the softest white sand that is hugged by gentle ripples, Rawa has been beautifully developed by the Sultanate of Johor that privately owns it. Great for windsurfing, canoeing, fishing and snorkeling, Rawa is an ideal escape in the form of a paradise.

Beach Resorts To Stay in: Alang's Rawa, Rawa Island Resort

16. Perhentians Islands

Consisting of two main islands, Pulau Perhentian Besar and Pulau Perhentian Kecil, and numerous other small islands, the Perhentians group of Islands is famous for its crystal-clear waters, corals and fishing opportunities. These islands can be reached by a ferry from Kuala Besut and internal commuting is done by water taxis or walking. The Long Beach is the most famous beach on these islands. The glorious Adam and Eve beach, D’Lagoon and Turtle Beach are other coasts which are well-known for their immense natural beauty. Indulge in activities like snorkeling and scuba diving when on this beach. Some of the most beautiful beach resorts promising tourists of a comfortable stay on this island are Bubu Long Beach Resort, Oh La La's, Long Beach and Mohsin Chalets.

17. Lang Tengah Island

Nestled between the tropical islands of Perhentian and Redang, Lang Tengah Island is a preferred spot for kayaking, diving and snorkeling. Since there are no proper roads on this island, the only way to get around is in boats! The best time to visit Lang Tengah is between March and October. Being a small island, there are only four beach resorts for the tourists to choose from; D'Coconut Lagoon Resort and Sari Pacifica Resort & Spa are the most famous beach resorts in Lang Tengah Island. The only way to reach this island is by taking a flight to Kuala Terengganu or Kota Bharu from Kuala Lumpur.

18. Gemia

Located just to the north-west of Kapas Island, Gemia can only be accessed by boats departing from the from Marang jetty. The peaceful island which covers about 9 acres is known for its serene and quiet atmosphere. With numerous opportunities of exploration, the beaches of Gemia offer tourists with a serene coastal getaway. The Gem Island Resort and Spa is the most popular and frequented resort in Gemia.

Malaysia is rightly known as the country with the most heavenly beaches. So when you are in Kuala Lumpur, do take time out and explore the wealth of natural sights that the country has to offer. Here's a recap of the best islands and beaches near Kuala Lumpur:

Reshma Dewda A hippie hiding in civilized clothes, a borderline feminist and a dreamer stuck in a practical avatar, Reshma is an incorrigible idealist who lives in a black and white world. A robin hood in her own right, she loves to come to the rescue and most times , she ends up rescuing herself in the bargain.